WANA (Apr 26) – The Islamic Republic of Iran’s President will soon embark on an official visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan, marking what government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani called “one of the fourteenth administration’s most important steps in regional and neighborhood diplomacy.”

 

Speaking ahead of the trip, Mohajerani emphasized that this visit comes as part of ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen Tehran-Baku relations in recent years. “Despite occasional political and security tensions, the relations between Iran and Azerbaijan have always been backed by a wealth of shared historical and cultural ties,” she said.

 

Highlighting the deep-rooted connections between the two nations, Mohajerani noted, “Iran and Azerbaijan are not only geographic neighbors but also social and familial kin. This bond transforms our relationship into one of mutual trust that goes far beyond formal diplomatic protocols.”

 

The spokeswoman stressed that the visit reflects Iran’s broader balanced foreign policy, aimed at simultaneously expanding ties worldwide while giving special priority to neighboring states. “The President’s trip to Baku continues the high-level diplomatic engagements we’ve seen with Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Iraq, underscoring the administration’s resolve to reshape regional and neighborly relations,” Mohajerani explained.

 

Iran, she added, has consistently based its foreign relations on shared interests, refusing to let external actors influence its neighborhood policies. “Regarding the South Caucasus, Tehran has pursued a policy rooted in rationality, respect for territorial integrity, and support for sustainable peace,” she said.

 

According to Mohajerani, the President’s discussions in Baku are expected to unlock new pathways for cooperation, especially at the provincial level. “We are seeking to enhance cross-border collaboration so that residents of neighboring provinces can directly benefit from stronger ties,” she stated.

 

Among the key issues on the agenda will be reopening border crossings — which have faced restrictions since the COVID-19 pandemic — safeguarding Iranian diplomatic properties in Azerbaijan, and addressing outstanding consular cases.

 

Touching on the incident at Azerbaijan’s embassy in Tehran, Mohajerani reiterated Iran’s commitment to diplomatic norms. “The Islamic Republic has always been transparent and responsible. We are fully committed to the protection of foreign diplomatic missions,” she affirmed.

 

In closing, Mohajerani pointed to the profound historical, cultural, and religious bonds between the peoples of Iran and Azerbaijan, describing them as “a natural foundation for understanding and synergy.” She added, “In sensitive times, these connections can help us overcome misunderstandings and build sustainable cooperation.”

 

“President Pezeshkian’s visit to Azerbaijan,” she concluded, “is a calculated and practical step toward strengthening bilateral ties, stabilizing our region, and harnessing the enormous joint potential for peace, security, and sustainable development in the South Caucasus.”